Could your A/C compressor be seized? Common issue on early Gen2. (before 2005)

 

Thanks for the reply.

I pulled the correct fuse and it stopped the condenser clutch from engaging.

I don't know how to diagnose seized vs worn/broken. The clutch would wiz right up like it threw the gear and cant engage properly, makes me think its not seized just unable to catch properly? I'm using layman knowledge I do not understand the engineering of whats going on down there.

She drives just... no AC for the New England summer.

 

When the cars were younger, a seized compressor was catastrophic, like when an engine 'throws a conrod'. They would fall apart inside and send shrapnel throughout the system, necessitating replacement of MANY components.

 

Pull the tire, so you can get to the A/C clutch nut. Rotate the nut as if your tightening it. There should be NO resistance; the compressor should spin freely - otherwise you've got a blow/siezed compressor.
Do this procedure when the car is properly secured, on jack stands wheels chock, with engine off.
OR if your small enough, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right and you may be able to squeeze in there. Safety; same as above applies.

The power wire for the compressor is just above the lower radiator hose, coming down from the center radiator support beam.

Good Luck..